Legendary Danube River Cruise

For guests joining us on our optional pre-cruise extension in Prague, the journey continues this morning as we depart the hotel at approximately 9:00 a.m. for our scenic transfer to Passau, Germany — the gateway to our river cruise adventure.

Before leaving the Czech Republic, enjoy one final morning in Prague, one of Europe’s most breathtaking and romantic cities. Often referred to as “The City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague is celebrated for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and dramatic skyline overlooking the Vltava River.

Upon arrival in Passau, we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of this picturesque Bavarian town before boarding our river ship.

For guests not participating in John Heath Travel’s optional Prague Pre-Cruise Extension:
Once you’ve cleared customs at Munich International Airport (MUC), a John Heath Travel representative will be waiting to greet you. From there, you’ll be transferred to your floating boutique hotel — the MS Bellejour — docked in the heart of Passau.

This morning, we dock in Linz, Austria. After breakfast, we travel to the enchanting town of Český Krumlov, tucked into the rolling hills of southern Czech Republic. With its cobbled Old Town, vibrant castle complex, and rare Baroque theater, this storybook destination is so remarkably preserved that the entire town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nestled within a dramatic bend of the Vltava River, Český Krumlov has been a crossroads of European cultures for centuries and flourished during its 16th-century Golden Age as a center for art, science, and innovation.

Our guided visit begins at Český Krumlov Castle, the former seat of the powerful Rožmberk family, who ruled here for more than 300 years. As we explore the beautifully preserved interiors, you’ll gain insight into noble Bohemian life through the ages.

Highlights include the iconic round tower, offering sweeping panoramic views after a climb of 162 steps, the historic bear pits—still home to European brown bears—and the expansive castle gardens blending French and English landscape design.

A true highlight of the visit is the Baroque Theater, one of only two surviving in the world. Touring behind the scenes reveals original wooden stage machinery once used to create dramatic effects, scenery changes, and theatrical illusions for 17th-century audiences.

We then continue into the heart of the Old Town, where you’ll enjoy lunch on your own in the charming main square, surrounded by Renaissance and Baroque buildings resting atop medieval foundations. Be sure to look for the famous red Baroque pharmacy, Lékárna, which has served the town since 1620.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure, including a visit to the delightful Puppet Museum, featuring more than 200 handcrafted puppets and a working miniature stage.

This morning, we depart the ship for a short transfer to the Linz railway station, where we board the Majestic Imperator — a beautifully restored palace on wheels. Once reserved exclusively for royalty, this historic train transports us through the Austrian countryside in elegant, old-world style.

As we glide past rolling hills, forests, and storybook villages, enjoy a welcome drink and gourmet brunch served onboard — a luxurious and memorable start to the day.

Upon arrival in Salzburg, we begin an immersive exploration of the city made famous by the beloved 1965 film The Sound of Music, starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. Set in the years leading up to World War II, the film tells the true story of Maria von Trapp and features iconic songs including “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” “My Favorite Things,” and “The Lonely Goatherd.”

Even for those unfamiliar with the Oscar-winning movie, today’s experience offers an outstanding introduction to Salzburg’s magnificent Baroque architecture and dramatic Alpine scenery — both recognized as part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Following our arrival, we visit the Villa Trapp, the former residence of the von Trapp family, for a brief introduction before continuing into Salzburg’s historic Old Town.

Our guided Sound of Music walking tour highlights several of the film’s most memorable locations, including:

• Mirabell Palace and Gardens
• Leopoldskron Palace

We’ll also enjoy free time in Salzburg, allowing you to explore at your own pace, shop for Mozart chocolates, relax in a café, or simply wander the charming streets of this musical city.

Later in the afternoon, we return to the railway station and reboard the Majestic Imperator for our elegant journey back to Linz. Dinner is served onboard, evoking the golden age of rail travel once experienced by Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth — affectionately known as “Sisi.”

“The thought of having to leave a place moves me and lets me love it.” — Empress Elisabeth

We return to our floating boutique hotel, MS Bellejour, with melodies still playing in our minds and memories of a truly royal day.

Today we cruise through the breathtaking Wachau Valley, one of the most scenic stretches of the Danube River and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dramatic hillsides rise above the river, dotted with medieval villages, abbey ruins, and terraced vineyards that have shaped this region for more than a thousand years.

The Wachau is internationally celebrated for producing some of Austria’s most exceptional wines. Its steep river-facing vineyards and unique microclimate create elegant, mineral-driven varietals that are highly regarded by wine lovers and sommeliers around the world.

This afternoon, we arrive in Tulln an der Donau, where we disembark for a curated wine tasting experience showcasing the best of the Wachau and Lower Austria wine regions. You’ll sample standout varietals such as Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, known for their vibrant acidity, crisp structure, and expressive character shaped by the Danube Valley terroir.

Following our tasting, we continue onward to Vienna, Austria’s grand imperial capital and one of Europe’s most culturally rich cities.

Vienna is also home to a welcoming and long-established LGBTQ+ community, with popular nightlife centered around neighborhoods such as Naschmarkt, Mariahilf, and the historic city center. From relaxed wine bars and cocktail lounges to energetic clubs, the city offers an inviting mix of options.

For convenience, shuttle transportation will be provided to and from Vienna’s primary LGBTQ+ districts this evening, allowing you to explore comfortably and return to the ship at your leisure.

Whether you choose an evening of café-hopping, a night out in Vienna’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, or simply a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of this elegant city, tonight offers a perfect blend of culture, community, and celebration.

Once the heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna remains Austria’s political and cultural capital. It was here that Klimt painted, Beethoven and Mozart composed, and Sigmund Freud developed his groundbreaking theories. Today, the city is a showcase of elegant streets, grand palaces, world-renowned art, and inviting cafés — and it’s yours to explore.

We begin the day with a guided walking tour led by a local expert, offering an engaging introduction to Vienna’s history, culture, and iconic landmarks.

A special highlight includes a visit to the legendary Hotel Sacher for a presentation and tasting of the iconic Sacher-Torte, a cherished Viennese tradition.

Following the morning’s sightseeing, enjoy lunch at your leisure — either dining ashore at one of Vienna’s many cafés and restaurants or returning to the ship for a relaxed midday meal.

Our afternoon continues with a visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty. Admire the palace’s signature yellow façade before exploring richly decorated rooms adorned with golden stucco, velvet draperies, and ornate frescoes — striking reminders of Austria’s imperial past.

After some free time in the city center to shop, stroll, or relax at a traditional Viennese café, we return to our floating boutique hotel.

This evening, enjoy a Viennese-inspired reception and dinner onboard as we set sail toward Budapest, bringing a perfect close to our time in Austria.

After a relaxing morning onboard, we arrive in the magnificent city of Budapest, often referred to as the “Paris of the East.” Our ship docks near the iconic 19th-century Chain Bridge, which gracefully connects the historic hills of Buda with the lively boulevards of Pest.

Budapest is a city of grand architecture, thermal baths, sweeping river views, and dramatic history — shaped by Roman, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian influences.

Following lunch onboard, we set out on a panoramic city tour, offering an excellent introduction to Hungary’s vibrant capital. Highlights include views of Heroes’ Square, Andrassy Avenue, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and scenic overlooks above the Danube.

Our afternoon continues with a visit to the historic Great Market Hall, Budapest’s largest and most colorful indoor market. Here you’ll find local specialties, traditional paprika, Hungarian wines, handcrafted souvenirs, and an energetic atmosphere that reflects everyday life in the city.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy — whether strolling along the riverfront, relaxing at a café, or taking in the illuminated beauty of Budapest as evening approaches.

Today offers the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and celebration as we enjoy our final full day in beautiful Budapest.

Our morning begins with a guided city experience highlighting two of Hungary’s most iconic landmarks. We visit the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, an architectural masterpiece overlooking the Danube and one of the largest parliamentary buildings in the world.

We also enjoy a stop at the renowned Franz Liszt Academy of Music, a cultural jewel of the city and one of Europe’s most prestigious conservatories, celebrated for its stunning Art Nouveau interiors and enduring musical legacy.

Later, unwind at the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths, a beloved Neo-Baroque spa complex welcoming guests for more than a century. With 15 indoor pools, multiple saunas, massage and facial services, and three expansive outdoor pools complete with whirlpools and jets, it is the perfect place to soak, relax, and rejuvenate.

The mineral-rich thermal waters are naturally heated and long believed to offer therapeutic benefits — making this one of Budapest’s most memorable experiences.

To help you make the most of your visit, our team will work with you earlier in the week to review and pre-book optional spa services, available at an additional cost.

This evening, we gather aboard the MS Belljour to celebrate our final night in Budapest. Enjoy an evening of fun and laughter with Drag Bingo hosted by top local drag entertainers, followed by a dazzling closing performance — the perfect finale to our unforgettable Hungarian adventure.